Short description:

The intersection of mathematics and physiology has a rich history, with mathematical models playing a vital role in advancing our understanding of cellular, organ, and whole-body physiological systems.  This updated edition of the prize-winning text Mathematical Physiology explores classic and contemporary models, showing how real-world physiological problems can be studied using mathematical techniques.

Key new features include:

• Complete code: Almost all the models come with computational code (in Matlab, Python, and XPPAUT) enabling hands-on experimentation.


• Solutions: Solutions and complete code for all exercises.


• Figures: Downloadable figures in PDF format for easy use in lectures or presentations.

James Keener is a Distinguished Professor of Mathematics at the University of Utah, USA. 

James Sneyd is a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Auckland, New Zealand.

Praise for the First Edition:

"...probably the best book ever written on the interdisciplinary field of mathematical physiology." Mathematical Reviews, 2000

"In addition to being good reading, excellent pedagogy, and appealing science, the exposition is lucid and clear, and there are many good problem sets to choose from... Highly recommended." Mathematical Biosciences, 1999

"It directs students to become not merely skilled technicians in biological research but masters of the science." SIAM, 2004

The first edition was the winner of the 1998 Association of American Publishers "Best New Title in Mathematics.?

Long description:

The intersection of mathematics and physiology has a rich history, with mathematical models playing a critical role in advancing our understanding of physiological systems, from basic cellular dynamics to complex systems biology. Through the examination of both classic and contemporary models, this book shows how real-world physiological problems can be studied and understood using mathematical techniques.

Now more accessible than ever, this updated edition is specifically designed for both students and instructors. It offers a host of new features aimed at enhancing the learning experience:

• Complete code for all figures: Every figure in the book is accompanied by full computational code?available in a variety of formats, including Matlab, Python and XPPAUT?enabling readers to replicate and experiment with the models themselves.


• Solutions: Full solutions, including code, for all exercises, are provided to reinforce key concepts and help teachers and students develop hands-on experience with the mathematical tools discussed.


• Improved clarity: While the core material remains largely the same, numerous sections have been rewritten and clarified, with additional figures and more detailed explanations.


• Convenient resources: All figures are now available for download in PDF format, making them ideal for inclusion in lecture slides or presentations.

This third edition builds upon the solid foundation of the earlier versions, with carefully updated material that ensures the book remains a valuable resource for anyone studying or teaching quantitative physiology. Whether you're a student diving into the world of mathematical modeling or an instructor looking for clear, practical resources for your course, Mathematical Physiology provides the perfect balance of theory, application, and computational tools.

James Keener is a Distinguished Professor of Mathematics at the University of Utah. He and his wife live in Salt Lake City, but don't be surprised if he moves to the mountains.

James Sneyd is a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Auckland in New Zealand, where he has worked for about five thousand years. He lives with his wife beside a beach, and would rather be swimming.

Reviews of the first edition:

...probably the best book ever written on the interdisciplinary field of mathematical physiology. Mathematical Reviews, 2000

In addition to being good reading, excellent pedagogy, and appealing science, the exposition is lucid and clear, and there are many good problem sets to choose from... Highly recommended. Mathematical Biosciences, 1999

Both authors are seasoned experts in the field of mathematical physiology and particularly in the field of excitability, calcium dynamics and spiral waves. It directs students to become not merely skilled technicians in biological research but masters of the science. SIAM, 2004

The first edition was the winner of the 1998 Association of American Publishers "Best New Title in Mathematics.?

Table of Contents:

Part I: Cellular Physiology.- 1 Biochemical Reactions.- 2 Cellular Homeostasis.- 3 Membrane Ion Channels.- 4 Passive Electrical Flow in Neurons.- 5 Excitability.- 6 Wave Propagation in Excitable Systems.- 7 Calcium Dynamics.- 8 Intercellular Communication.- 9 Neuroendocrine Cells.- 10 Regulation of Cell Functions.- Part II: Systems Physiology.- 11 The Circulatory System.- 12 The Heart.- 13 Blood.- 14 Respiration.- 15 Muscle.- 16 The Endocrine System.- 17 Renal Physiology.- 18 The Gastrointestinal System.- 19 The Retina and Vision.- 20 The Inner Ear.